Causes of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): NAFLD is primarily caused by metabolic risk factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome NICE CKS.
Other contributing factors include poor diet, physical inactivity, and possibly genetic predisposition NICE CKS.
Management options for NAFLD: The main management approach involves lifestyle modifications, including diet, physical activity, and gradual weight loss, aiming for a 5-10% weight reduction over 6 months NICE CKS.
Adopting a Mediterranean diet and reducing sugar-sweetened beverages are recommended NICE CKS.
Moderate intensity exercise for 150-200 minutes per week, combining aerobic activity with diet, is most effective NICE CKS.
Management also includes controlling associated conditions such as hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, and type 2 diabetes NICE CKS.
Alcohol intake should be within national recommended limits, as alcohol consumption in moderation might be protective against NAFLD NICE CKS.
People with NAFLD should continue statin therapy if prescribed, as statins are safe and may improve liver histology NICE CKS.
Pharmacological treatments like pioglitazone and vitamin E are considered in secondary care for advanced fibrosis, but are off-label and require specialist management NICE CKS.